Viking ships and frigid ice expanses. Snowcapped mountains and rolling hillsides. Water, water and more water.

You might imagine all these when someone mentions Iceland. While they are part of what you'll find, the wonders of Iceland reach much farther.

According to the Iceland Tourist Board website, Iceland is closer than you think, but far different than you ever imagined. Nothing could be truer!

Mystery, Myths and Mountains

Ancient legends of Leif Eriksson and other Vikings along with the Midnight Sun shroud Iceland in mystery. Stunning mountain ranges offer scenery similar to that found in the movie The Sound of Music during spring and majestic, jagged peaks during winter.

All of these are true depictions of Iceland. However, over the years several myths about this gorgeous slice of nature have also developed. Let's clear a few of those up.

Did you know?

* Wintertime temperatures in several areas of Iceland are higher than those in New York City and other eastern seaboard towns.

* Iceland is only a 5-hour flight from the east coast of the United States. That's 1 hour shorter than flying from Boston to Seattle!

* June, July and August offer nonstop fun because Iceland has daylight round the clock.

* Iceland is virtually a pollution-free country being almost completely powered with geothermal and hydroelectric energy.

* Iceland has the capability to grow delicious organic fruits and vegetables in greenhouses year round.

Celebrities Rave

Did you also know that celebrities including Saturday Night Live's Will Forte and mega-star Jodie Foster rave about what fun they had in Iceland? Foster, in her interview with late-night host David Letterman, called Iceland 'fantastic' and specifically named the lava fields, glaciers, whales, puffins, thermal pools and neon-blue water as some of her favorites.

While not considered a 'celebrity,' the United Nations named Iceland the best country in the world to live. Quite impressive!

Nature At Her Best

If the outdoors is your thing, Iceland won't disappoint! As Jodie Foster mentioned, glaciers and lava fields are very popular sights in Iceland. In addition, you'll encounter spewing geysers and steaming solfataras, volcanoes, raging rivers and breathtaking waterfalls. Then there are the animals.

With the largest razorbill colony in the world, Iceland boasts a healthy and diverse bird population. Puffins, skua, eiders, Arctic terns, waders and other unique species are found all throughout the country.

Add to that an excellent selection of whales, dolphins and porpoises and you've got a show sure to entertain your entire family.

From seasonal festivals to the world-famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa (known to cure skin diseases such as psoriasis!) to whitewater rafting, Iceland is a unique playground offering plenty for all to do and see. Since it's closer (and warmer!) than you previously thought, why not make plans to cruise to Iceland for your next vacation?